The retro-styled Honda Urban EV Concept enjoyed an
enthusiastic reception in 2017 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The question on
everyone’s lips has been when would Honda finally put it into production. The
answer came earlier this year when the automaker confirmed that a production
version inspired by the cute study would arrive in 2019.
It looks like Honda is sticking to its word,
as an Urban EV prototype has been spotted for the first time on public roads.
While completely wrapped in camouflage, the small electric vehicle bears a
striking resemblance to the namesake concept car. The production model has five
doors instead of three, becomes a five seater.
The
production model takes practicality more seriously as it adds a pair of rear
doors. Another big difference is that all doors are front-hinged as opposed to
the study’s suicide doors. The more practical approach doesn’t necessarily mean
the Urban EV will compromise on styling. All
doors have frameless windows and integrated door handles. If you can’t spot
those on the rear it’s because they are “hidden” at the lower end of the
C-pillar. The cute retro styling remains and is sprinkled with futuristic
details
The Urban EV prototype has kept the
concept’s rearview cameras and the photographers also noticed that the inside
rearview mirror was digital. The round LED headlights also look identical with
those of the study, but Honda designers seem to have had a change of heart when
it comes to the taillights. They replaced the concept’s square units with round
LED lights that echo the design of their front counterparts.
As for the interior, the good news is the big screen
will remain on the production model. Sadly, we can’t see anything else because
of the tinted windows. Honda remains secretive about the Urban EV’s powertrain
too. Still, rumor has it the driving range will be between 250 and 350 km.
Honda will start production of its first
all-electric model for Europe in the second half of 2019, which means the Urban
EV should be revealed earlier than that – the Geneva Motor Show in March looks
like the ideal venue for the car’s public debut. Honda will begin taking orders in
early 2019 for Europe, with first deliveries coming late 2019. The Urban EV
will also be available in Japan from 2020.
Cr : Carscoops
